Vote-By-Mail Process Explained

PARSIPPANY — Based on a recent article in NewJerseyGlobe.com, it was reported that “Grossi Rejects High Rate of Vote-By-Mail (VBM) Applications of Asian Indian Parsippany Voters.”

Based upon a number of inquiries concerning the processing of Vote by Mail (“VBM”) applications, the following procedure required by NJ State Law are explained and stringently followed by the Morris County Clerk’s Election Office.

Vote-By-Mail applications and ballots are governed by N.J.S.A. 19:63-1 et al., commonly known as the Absentee Voter Act (“ACT”).  The purpose of the ACT is to “facilitate exercise of franchise of voters, while preventing fraud and preserving secrecy and integrity of voting process.” Barrett v. Monmouth County Bd. of Elections, 307 N.J. Super. 403, 403 (1997).

In compliance with the ACT, the Morris County Clerk’s Election Office is responsible for processing all VBM Applications, reviewing the application to ensure that it meets certain criteria, if not, the VBM Application must be rejected and, if verified, the Vote-By-Mail Ballot is mailed to the voter.  Once these steps are completed, the County Clerk’s Office is no longer involved with processing the actual VBM ballot.  That is the responsibility of the County Board of Elections, which is a separate entity from the County Clerk’s Office. All completed VBM Ballots, by law, should be returned to the County Board of Elections and not the County Clerk’s Office.

Concerning the Vote-By-Mail Applications, the County Clerk’s Election Office is required to input every VBM Ballot application it receives into the New Jersey State Voter Registration System (“SVRS”) and is required to compare the “signature block against” what appears in the “SVRS”. N.J.S.A.19:63-8.

The SVRS contains a list of enumerated reasons why an application shall be rejected.  Those reasons are as follows:  not registered in the county, name does not match the registration files, no “X” on application, no witness on application, not at address given on application, application received after deadline, changed party after 55 day deadline (refers to primary elections), county address required, criminal conviction, damaged application, incomplete assistor portion, moved out of county, signature does not match, other, voter status – deleted, power of attorney not allowed, and over 3 voters per messenger (refers to vote by mail ballot received by the Board of Elections).

By way of example, in the 2017 Parsippany election cycle, VBM Applications were rejected for the following reasons: signature on application does not compare with the signature of record, birth dates did not match, assistor portion not filled out or not completed properly, application not signed, registered at a different address, application received after deadline, signature missing, on the criminal disqualification list, registered under a name other than one listed on their application, etc.

In the event that a Vote-By-Mail Application is rejected, the voter is notified in writing and provided with an explanation of the reason for the rejection. 

This way the voter is given the opportunity, if possible, to cure the defect and resubmit a corrected VBM Application.  However, even if the voter does not cure the defect and provided that they are a registered voter, they are always permitted to vote at their local polling location.

The most important thing to note is that no one is ever disenfranchised or denied the right to vote.

 

European Wax Center to hold Grand Opening

PARSIPPANY — David Coba, CEO and co-founder of European Wax Center, the leader in the beauty waxing service industry, announced the opening of its Parsippany location in the State of New Jersey, its 52nd in New Jersey. The new center will hold a grand opening celebration on Saturday, October 13 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

European Wax Center is “The Experts In Eyebrows” and as such, they will be offering complimentary eyebrows to all! Stop in to experience the difference! A raffle and samples are also in store. Reservations are not required, but are suggested. Call (973) 352-0505.

European Wax Center is located at The Troy Hills Shopping Center and will bring its premier quality services to residents and local businesses in the Parsippany area.

“We are thrilled to be expanding the European Wax Center experience throughout New Jersey” says Judy Cook, Co-Franchisee of European Wax Center’s 1121 Route 46 location. “We believe what we offer is about helping everyone find their own version of gorgeous that can be incorporated into a regular beauty routine.”

Coba explains, “EWC is a lifestyle brand that is all about revealing beautiful skin and feeling unapologetically confident. With our services and products, we offer guests everywhere the chance to walk into one of our centers and strut out looking and feeling gorgeous.”

The Troy Hills Shopping Center (currently under complete renovation) features Target, LA Fitness, Petco, Michaels, Massage Envy, Panera Bread and Applebees to name a few.

The shopping center located on the corner of Route 46 and South Beverwyck Road.

As the largest waxing company in the U.S., European Wax Center (EWC) believes that revealing beautiful skin is the first step toward revealing the best version of yourself. The brand’s mission is to inspire women to be authentic and unapologetically confident in everything they do.

European Wax Center (EWC), an iconic beauty lifestyle brand, was founded by siblings David and Josh Coba in 2004. The concept was simple: to bring the EWC distinctive waxing expertise and unmatched experience to women throughout the USA.

Today, EWC is a lifestyle beauty brand admired by millions for our all-natural COMFORT WAX®, their exclusive 4 Steps to Gorgeous® process, and propriety collection of services and brow, body, and skincare product collections that enable everyone to feel pampered, confident, and beautiful in their own skin. EWC is so confident that it will be love at first wax, the first wax is always complimentary.

With over 680 open centers, European Wax Center is recognized as one of the fastest growing companies in the beauty lifestyle services category and continues to outpace the OOH waxing market.

For more information about EWC or to book reservations, click here.

 

Letter to the editor: TIME FOR A NEW FLAG Ecology…remarks on film Ocean of Plastic

parsippany focusDear Editor:

Without doubt the most important issue of our time is environmental and human justice. Economics and Homeland Security mean little in the knowledge that our natural resources and our wildlife heritage is being destroyed or buried and swamped in plastic pollution.

Having direct experience in trash/litter abatements for well over forty years in the Delaware water Gap National recreation Area, and several other places of public use I have experienced impacts from consumption products first hand. Seeing the film “ A Plastic Ocean” at the Parsippany Library October 10th revealed the plastic pollution phenomena is even more drastic and alarming than human imagination. Reminded me of my return to Panama after 41 years in 2006. Panama, 1968-69; was pristine and beautiful in its breath and scope; its worse eye sores were perhaps some manufactured wood or beer bottles seen on its beaches or roads from human consumption. It was a shock and depressing experience at times to see these once beautiful places, beaches and streets in small villages, littered with plastics. It was the same in other places of travels in Central America and the Caribbean.

Our own Homeland is no different, as the magnitude of the phenomena has literally encroached the whole of Planet Earth all in a mere 50-year period of unregulated plastics production. It is truly as a title of a book first printed in 1864 concerning how the land and people relations were impacted and degraded by the Industrial Revolution as it transformed itself from steam to coal. The title of the book, “Man and Nature” subtitled “The Earth as Transformed by Human Action” author a man from New England George Perkins Marsh lost father and founder of the conservation movement. When oil then is added to the industrial equations of impacts, we have its derivative plastic. Actually the first plastic was derived from coal tar in 1862, and its forms increased until in 1907 we had the first totally synthetic man made plastic known as “bakelite”.  No substance perhaps ever has such an impact, and allowed its unregulated spread in the free market of world trade; perhaps the greatest example of earth as transformed by human action.

This sin or crime against nature demands not individual but government concern and action a new anti-plastic cleanup economy. It is time for the not dependent upon individual virtues and discipline, but the interest of good government in the interest of all humanity not corporate profits and escape of responsibilities associated with their waste. The moment all too many plastic products are utilized they become waste. Corporate franchises like Dunkin Donut, 7-11, Quick Check, Starbucks, many more are all, complicit in this crime against nature and humanity. Plastics and especially those like Styrofoam are in the metabolisms of fish, other fauna and humans.

The advance of fossil fuels and their related technology are all related to war in their inception, accelerated by the invention of the combustion engine for motor vehicles. The cumulative effects now stand before us. Time for the new economy, time for government action.

Time for tax dollars to be used for the new transformation economy, direct subsidies to allow for the changes required, time for the power of the state at the highest level to create these economic conditions, time for a new flag in our lives, to be added and displayed in all government and public offices at every level; time for the Ecology Flag as a symbol of the crisis of our time. Not the economy, but the new economy.  In 1941 the United States in matters of months mobilized its economy to fight against the Axis threat; so this transformation is not new and has been proven to be possible. We must question why this world crisis is being ignored. How is America, Great, How is it exceptional and thriving more than ever before? Only in plastics do we believe without our consent and in the bliss of ignorance and sin.

Ecology Flag let it become a symbol and a new awareness let it stand and fly with the stars and stripes. End the scourge of plastics and the fossil fuel economy that has taken us to damnation and apathy. Convenience is not freedom its pollution, as the end result has proven. RESOLUTION TO BAN PLASTIC LET US GET IT ON!

Nik Homyak
Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034

Freeholders Proclaim October as “Arts And Humanities Month 2018″

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of Freeholders has proclaimed October as “Arts and Humanities Month 2018’’ in Morris County, part of a national observance held each October to encourage residents to explore new facets of the arts and humanities in their lives, and to begin a lifelong habit of active participation in the arts.

The freeholders issued an Arts and Humanities Month 2018 proclamation to Tom Werder, Executive Director of Morris Arts, and to Lynn Siebert, Director of Arts Participation & Communications for Morris Arts.

Morris County Freeholder Director Doug cabana presents a proclamation to Morris Arts officials proclaiming October 2018 Arts and Humanities Month in Morris County during the freeholder work session Oct. 10, 2018. From left, Freeholder Kathy DeFillippo, Freeholder Director Doug Cabana, Lynn Siebert, Director of Arts Participation and Communications at Morris Arts and Tom Werder, Executive Director at Morris Arts.

“The Arts play an important part in all facets of our personal and professional lives, and are of great importance in business and government and education, enhancing our quality of life across Morris County,’’ said Morris County Freeholder Director Doug Cabana.

During this month, arts organizations in Morris County and across the state and nation plan and develop events, celebrations and innovative programming to highlight the Arts and Humanities.

“Morris Arts is honored to receive this proclamation and accepts it on behalf of Morris County’s vibrant arts and humanities community. The arts build community and are a major reason that people want to live, work and play in Morris County, said Executive Director Werder. “The arts and humanities enrich, inform and empower us to reach for the best within us.”

Members of the Arts and Humanities Community present in support of the Proclamation, L-R: Amy Curry (Executive Director, Morris County Historical Society/Acorn Hall) and her Research Assistant, Joe Garafolo; Cleveland Johnson (Executive Director, Morris Museum); Ed Kirchdoerffer (General Manager, Mayo Performing Arts Center); Guy Palmiotto (HUB Camera Club); Martin Prentice (Morris Arts Board Member); Dr. Anne Matlack (Artistic Director, Harmonium Choral Society); Terry Scullin (Morris Music Men); Tom Werder (Executive Director, Morris Arts); Tara Skirzenski (Board Chair, Morris Arts); Erin Keating (Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey) in front of artworks by Bascove.

National Arts & Humanities Month was established in 1993 and initiated to encourage Americans to explore new facets of the arts and humanities in their lives, and to begin a lifelong habit of participation in the arts and humanities.

National Arts and Humanities Month’s four goals are to create a national, state and local focus on the arts and humanities; encourage participation of individuals nationwide; provide an opportunity for federal, state and local business, government and civic leaders to declare support for the arts and humanities; and to raise public awareness.

There are a wide variety of arts and cultural event and exhibits scheduled for Morris County in the coming weeks. For example, Paula Abdul, Melissa Etheridge, and the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra will play at the Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown.

The Festival of Books is coming to Morristown in October. The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey in Madison will feature “Charlie’s Aunt.’’  There will be a Frankenstein anniversary exhibit at Drew University. A production of “Tales of Edgar Allan Poe’’ is scheduled at the Pax Amicus Theatre in Mount Olive.

Or you can tour the Gallery at 14 Maple in Morristown or take in the always changing and interesting exhibits and programs at the Morris Museum and Bickford Theatre in Morris Township, among many potential venues in Morris County to seek out the arts.

For much more information click here: Morris Arts; Morris County Tourism Bureau; or Morris County Government.

 

Two Men Arrested in Connection with Burglary and Shots Fired

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Morris Township Police Chief Mark DiCarlo announce the arrest of two males in connection with an armed burglary that occurred on the evening of July 28, 2018 in Morris Township.

Patrick Wolfe, 25, with known addresses in East Orange and Newark, and Kyle Vaz, 20, with known addresses in Newark and Morris Township, have both been charged with numerous second degree crimes, including Burglary, Conspiracy to Commit Burglary, Possession Weapon Unlawful Purpose, and Unlawful Possession Weapon.

It is alleged that on the evening of Saturday, July 28, Kyle Vaz and Patrick Wolfe drove in a blue Ford F-150 pickup truck to 7 Frederick Place in Morris Township.

This vehicle is registered to Kyle Vaz. Upon arrival to this residence, it is alleged that Wolfe took possession of a firearm and attempted to make entry into the rear of the residence through a sliding door.

During the course of this incident, it is alleged that Wolfe discharged a round from the firearm. After this incident, it is alleged that Wolfe and Vaz left the scene in Vaz’s vehicle.

During the early morning hours of Wednesday, October 10, both Kyle Vaz and Patrick Wolfe were taken into custody pursuant to this ongoing investigation.

Vaz was taken into custody in Madison. Wolfe was taken into custody in Newark. Multiple law enforcement agencies have been actively involved in this investigation, including the Morris Township Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and the Major Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.

If anyone has any information related to this investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Morris Township Police at (973) 539-0777, Morris Township Detective Justin Crowell at (973) 326-7484, the Major Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200, or the Morristown Police Department at (973) 538-2200.

Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

SBA Recognizes the Contributions of Women Entrepreneurs during National Women’s Small Business Month

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration is recognizing National Women’s Small Business Month and the countless women small business owners who have pursued their passion and taken the leap into entrepreneurship. Women are a driving force in the nation’s economy, starting most new businesses.  They own 9.9 million companies that employ more than eight million people and provide $264 billion in wages to employees.

“I’m really excited about the great milestones celebrated on behalf of women business owners in our nation, and the strides continuing to be made in their interest,” SBA Administrator Linda McMahon said.  “At the SBA, we are championing women entrepreneurs who still face many barriers.  We can do more by providing tools and resources to create or grow a small business and employ more Americans.”

The growing number of women entrepreneurs has not happened by accident. A major contributor to the growth of women-owned small businesses is legislation that targeted the creation of resources and networks for women.  This year the SBA also celebrates a milestone of 30 years since the passage of the Women’s Business Ownership Act (H.R. 5050), which was aimed at leveling the playing field for women-owned businesses.  It officially established the SBA’s Women’s Business Center (WBC) program.

The WBCs were the first SBA program that focused on women. Today, there are over 100 WBCs across the nation, including nine new centers that opened this year.  These centers provide services for women entrepreneurs, helping them to launch and grow businesses, invest in their communities, create jobs, and grow the economy.

“We know the impact that women have on our economy and the importance of women entrepreneurs,” said Kathy McShane, Assistant Administrator for the SBA’s Office of Women’s Business Ownership.  “We want women entrepreneurs to feel confident taking a risk on starting and growing their businesses.  Whether they are writing a business plan, connecting with a business mentor, or receiving a loan to start or expand their business, each woman can access resources available through the SBA.”

To help businesses overcome the barriers to start up, the SBA provides mentorship and counseling through the Women’s Business Centers, Small Business Development Centers, SCORE and the Veterans Business Outreach Centers.

Each year, the SBA counsels, trains and advises more than one million entrepreneurs and small business owners.  Its resource partners provide access to capital, resources, and business expertise for each stage of a business’s lifecycle.

The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more click here.

Meet Chelsey: Loves Kids, Dogs!

RANDOLPH — Chelsey is about 15-18 weeks old, under twenty pounds and as you can see, she is beautiful!! She has a soft brown coat with white on her chest, tips of all four paws, tip of tail, under chin and on face. And, just look at that sweet face!! Forever Home Dog Rescue rescued her along with her siblings from an over-populated shelter in St. Marten and they are now living in foster homes in New Jersey. St. Marten is a beautiful island, but life can be hard for dogs. The shelters are overpopulated and so many dogs live in the streets trying to find food and water.

Chelsey is sweet and shy. She is very happy to be in a foster home because she is getting good food, toys, treats, soft bed and lots of love that she never had before!  

This is what her foster mom says about her…. “When Chelsey came to live with us she was very shy, but she has made some progress. Chelsey enjoys running around the yard, playing with balls and toys and wrestling with her siblings or our dog. Chelsey is really cute! She will follow my children around and she loves to snuggle. Chelsey sleeps through the night without having accidents and is house trained as long as she is on a schedule. Chelsey would do well in a calm home without very young children. She is just a Love!” 

Chelsey is such a sweet pup, and we recommend someone who has the patience acclimating her to her new home. She is quite shy and will run away when adults approach her. Chelsey was not accustomed to human touch before being in a foster home and she’s slowly getting trust of people. She’s just beginning to learn humans are in his life to help her. Chelsey is making progress in her foster home that we are sure she will continue to blossom in her furever home. 

When Chelsey meets new people she will likely run away from. It will take time until she is comfortable. She would do well in a home with another dog or children (older than 7 ). 

Whoever adopts her should realize that she is a work in progress, but we assure you she will come around! We would suggest working with a trainer. Chelsey has already has made large steps toward a brighter future. 

She just need the right person to call her own. Chelsey is truly a diamond in the ruff!”
Rescue:  Furever Home Dog Rescue
Contact: FHDR@att.net
                www.FureverHomeDogRescue.com

Alliance Members Honored by Freeholders For Work on Drug and Alcohol Addictions

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of Freeholders today honored four volunteers from Municipal Alliance Programs in the county for their exemplary efforts to battle alcohol and drug abuse across Morris County.

Judy Carbone of Long Hill, Laurie Cama of Morris Plains and Janet Boetticher of Jefferson who accepted on behalf of herself and her daughter Brittany Boetticher of Jefferson, received resolutions of congratulations from the freeholders for their efforts in Stigma-Free Morris County to encourage treatment and recovery for persons addicted by substance abuse.

Cama, who volunteers for the Morris Plains Municipal Alliance, recently was named Morris County Volunteer of the Year by the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.

“These women are leaders in our battle against opioid addiction and other substance abuses that are taking lives and destroying families across our county and state,’’ said Freeholder Director Doug Cabana.

“They are making a difference by standing up against addictions and helping residents find the programs, and treatments, and support they need to live better lives. We congratulate them,’’ added Freeholder Kathy DeFillippo.

Joining the freeholders in presenting the resolutions were Morris County Director of Human Services Jennifer Carpinteri and Morris County Alliance Coordinator Steve Nebesni.

The Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse funds Municipal Alliances in all 21 New Jersey counties.

Municipal Alliance networks in each county are comprised of local, volunteer organizations. This statewide network assesses needs, sets priorities, develops plans and implements programs that form the foundation of New Jersey’s substance abuse prevention activities.

In Morris County, there are 28 Municipal Alliances – including some regional organizations – that represent 33 Morris County towns.

Morris County Freeholders presented resolutions honoring Morris County Alliance Volunteers of the Year during the freeholder work session October 10, in Morristown. From left, Freeholders Kathy DeFillippo and Deb Smith, Volunteer of the Year Laurie Cama of Morris Plains, Morris County Alliance Coordinator Steve Nebesni, Freeholder Director Doug Cabana, Volunteers of the Year Janet Boetticher of Jefferson and Judy Carbone of Long Hill Township, Freeholder Heather Darling, Morris County Department of Human Services Director Jennifer Carpinteri and Freeholder Deputy Director Christine Myers.

Laurie Cama: She positively transformed the after-school Stage Fun program and initiated a new program called Odyssey of the Mind. These programs, which are designed to enhance developmental assets and strengthen resistance skills, have enjoyed excellent results and feedback from the community

During the course of her time volunteering for the Morris Plains Municipal Alliance, Laurie has developed partnerships with her place of employment, BASF, as well as community and school district partnerships, to help the Municipal Alliance achieve its goals.

Judy Carbone: As a member of the Watchung Hills Regional Municipal Alliance, she was instrumental in implementing the annual “Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day” activities in Long Hill. She organized a student volunteers’ door-to-door campaign in the community and visited local doctors’ offices to distribute information and raise awareness on the addictive qualities of opioids and the dangers of overprescribing.

Judy took charge of the “Get Your ID Out” Campaign, which supplies liquor storeowners with literature and ID checking equipment. Also, she spearheaded the grassroots Morris County Stigma-Free Initiative in Long Hill.

Brittany Boetticher: She has been an active Jefferson Township Municipal Alliance member since eighth grade, recruiting many teen Alliance members and participating in numerous events, such as Project Purple, Drug Facts Week, Red Ribbon Week and the Pinwheel Project, among others.

In addition, she is involved in various community organizations, including the Girl Scouts in which she is working on her Gold Award, entitled “Project Speak Out!” that deals with suicide prevention.  She serves on the Jefferson Alliance alongside her mom, Janet Boetticher, making quite a mother-daughter community service team.

Janet Boetticher: As a member of the Jefferson Municipal Alliance, Janet has been involved in the Alliance’s substance abuse prevention activities and, in particular, has been instrumental in getting youth engaged in the Alliance and prevention activities.

In addition, she volunteers with a number of other community organizations and committees and brings enthusiasm and support to every meeting and activity she attends. She serves in the Jefferson Alliance alongside her daughter, Brittany.

Conversations About Being Mortal: Spiritual Decisions

PARSIPPANY — Living Waters Church in partnership with the Atlantic Health System will hold a lecture and discussion about Spiritual Decisions on Saturday, November 17 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Joseph F. Fennelly, MD will be Keynote Speaker.

Registration is Free. Guest Speakers. Light Refreshments.  To Register click here or contact Mary Rich at (973) 626-1072. Walk-ins are welcome.

For over 60 years, Dr. Joseph Fennelly has contributed to advancements in the field of bioethics at state, national and international levels.  Dr. Fennelly earned an undergraduate degree from Seton Hall University in 1952 and an MD degree from New York College in 1956.  He has served on the staff of Morristown Medical Center since 1962.  Dr Fennelly established the first Ethics Committee at Morristown Medical Center in 1983 as well as several other nursing homes and chronic care facilities.

Dr. Fennelly has been practicing internal medicine for over six decades with involvement in the landmark 1977 New Jersey Supreme Court End-of-Life case of Karen Ann Quinlan, as well as the Nancy Ellen Jobes feeding tube case.  While chair of the Morris County Medical Society Humanities Committee, Dr. Fennelly was asked by the Quinlan family to care for Karen after the New Jersey Supreme Court allowed her father to make healthcare decisions.

Dr. Fennelly is a founding member and vice chair of the New Jersey Citizens Committee on Bioethics.  He chaired or co-chaired the Bioethics Committee of the Medical Society of New Jersey for over three decades and remains Chair Emeritus of this committee.  He also served for seven years on the Governors’ Bioethics Commission in New Jersey and currently serves on the Governor’s Council on End-of- Life care.

Dr. Fennelly has lectured extensively throughout the country and abroad on issues of death and dying and related medical ethics issues in a variety of distinguished and diverse venues.  He has published numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, book reviews, and op-eds as well as serving as the guest editor of a special issue on Biomedical Ethics in New Jersey Medicine.

Dr. Fennelly has been recognized with numerous awards and most recently was the recipient of two Lifetime Achievement Awards from both Morristown Medical Center and the Medical Society of New Jersey for leadership in the field of biomedical ethics.  In 1999, he also received the Academy of Medicine of New Jersey, Dr. Edward Ill Award for “Physician of the Year” in  honor of his contributions to society and to medicine, particularly in the area of medical ethics.

Dr. Fennelly is a leading advocate and lecturer on end-of-life care and the right to die movement.  He possesses a rare perspective and knowledge of the care and treatment of patients at the end-of-life and strongly supports the Conversation Project and the importance of “telling your story” about what matters most in life.

Evening of Promise: Recognizing Volunteers & Community Service

RANDOLPH — Family Promise will honoring the volunteers who are the driving force of the organization and make what they do possible. The evening will be held on Thursday, November 8 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Meadow Wood Manor, 461 Route 10 East.

The event features a cocktail reception, elegant dinner and tricky tray, the highlights of the evening are inspiring speeches from honorees, sponsors and past program graduates. The Community Impact Award is sponsored by Greenberg Traurig.

Please RSVP by October 30, 2018 to (973) 998-082, rsvp@familypromisemorris.org or Click here to register.

Family Promise of Morris County partners with more than 75 congregations of different faiths and 1600 of their congregants to provide shelter, overnight staffing, breakfast, lunch and dinner to our families. The dedication and commitment of all these partners makes Family Promise of Morris County the most cost-effective shelter program in the community. This cost efficiency allows to direct the majority of funding to the needs of our families and the operating model provides an opportunity for community participation that is not available in a traditional shelter setting. The volunteers and their families open their congregations, schedules, wallets and their hearts to the families we serve.

At Family Promise of Morris County, they allow our families to stay for as long as they need to get back on their feet. For some that may be a couple of weeks; for others, six months or a year. Many traditional shelters have time limits that can force families to find other temporary shelter before accumulating enough resources or completing the necessary education and training to obtain gainful employment and independent housing. They want to ensure that families are well prepared and in a position to secure a permanent place in the community.

Parsippany IHOP to hold “Trunk or Treat”

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany IHOP, 792 Route 46, will be holding their First Annual “Trunk or Treat” on Friday, October 26 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Register and get a chance to win the grand price of a $100.00 gift certificate. The best vehicle decorations will be the winner.

You will need to register at Parsippany IHOP. Your vehicle will be decorated. Must have candy for all children. Be punctual by 5:30 p.m. Registration will end on October 19.

Kids eat free with purchase of an adult entree, Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

For additional information call (973) 396-8629.

 

 

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk expects over 10,000

PARSIPPANY — American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk will be held on Sunday, October 21. The event will be held at the Century Office Campus, 4 Century Drive.

The American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks raise awareness and funds to save lives from breast cancer. Each event is a noncompetitive five mile walk that brings people together to make a difference for everyone who has been touched by breast cancer. The events raise money to fund innovative research, provide free information and support, and to help people reduce their breast cancer risk or find it early when it’s most treatable.

From the opening ceremony to the post-walk entertainment, a Making Strides event is a celebration of survivors and opportunity to remember loved-ones lost. It’s a day that shouldn’t be missed and won’t be forgotten.

Check-in 8:00 a.m.

Sign up online for easy check-in the day of the walk. All event participants need to register for the walk. Once you arrive to the walk head to check-in where you will hand in any cash or check donations.

Opening Ceremony 8:30 a.m.

Come together with survivors, caregivers, men and women from all walks of life who are passionate about saving lives from breast cancer. Celebrate your shared efforts. Inspire each other to carry on. And take comfort in the knowledge that because of your dedication, no one walks alone.

Walk Begins 10:00 a.m.

We all walk together, but our event is not a race. Stop whenever you want or need to. You absolutely do not need to complete the entire walk if you are unable. The walk concludes when the final walker crosses the finish line.

FOR SURVIVORS

The survivor area is a special area for survivors. Survivors are allowed to bring in one caregiver. You will have chances to win prizes and light refreshments will be served in this tent.

Caregivers will be able to visit this tent and write messages to their loved ones.

To learn more about the Making Strides of Parsippany or for other information, call toll free at 1-800-227-2345. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also contact your local American Cancer Society office using the contact Carmen Nieves at (973) 232-576 Monday through Friday during standard business hours, or email carmen.nieves@cancer.org.

American Cancer Society, Attn: Making Strides of Parsippany,7 Ridgedale Avenue, Suite 103, Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927

Mangiano Pizza Restaurant & Catering to hold grand opening ribbon cutting

CEDAR KNOLLS – The Grand Opening of Mangiano Pizza Restaurant & Catering located at 102 East Hanover Avenue will be held on Monday, October 15  at 5:00 p.m. They are joining QuickChek, Old Navy, Five Below, Ulta Beauty, Home Goods, Famous Footwear and Auto Zone.

When you first enter Mangiano there is no question that you are walking into something truly special. The style, quality and attention to detail of the décor give you a glimpse of the pride they take in their food. A family-owned spot, the pride of ownership shines through. The owner proudly states “We’re not a franchise; Family owned.”

Starting in 2000, the family’s entry was a small pizza shop in Allendale. The owner then opened his second location in Mahwah, and in 2009 opened his third location in Paramus. With over 20 years of Italian cuisine under their belts, their success continues to rise with the new Cedar Knolls location.

When dining at this BYOB, you will be seated into one of Mangiano’s 90 seats, where you’re welcomed with a basket of warm freshly baked bread and garlic knots. Regardless of how you choose to start: whether the Gorgonzola Chicken Salad served with sun-dried tomatoes, onions, asparagus, olives and Gorgonzola cheese and homemade vinaigrette, or the Gluten-Free Grilled Calamari and Shrimp served with fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, olives and balsamic vinaigrette, either selection is mouth-watering. They also offer many Gluten-Free items and can accommodate any food allergy.

The entire menu is diverse, with over 40 different gourmet pizza pies spanning personal pan or 16-inch sizes. Their Mangiano Margarita Pizza is the most requested. The Chicken Francaise is the most popular entrée, followed by penne al la vodka. Mangiano also offers appetizers, paninis, wraps, salads and more. They even offer their own Zeppoles, a true traditional Italian favorite. If that wasn’t enough, they also offer a children’s menu along and extensive dessert menu.

The owners are always looking to provide a better dining experience. “Opening a newer operation (Mangiano) challenges us to improve the quality and process,” Owner says. They are confident that their commitment to good food will be the reason for their continued success in this new location.

For more information:

Mangiano Pizza & Restaurant

(973) 936-9599; 102 East Hanover Avenue, Cedar Knolls

www.mangianopizza.com

Open 7 Days from 9:00 a.m. 10:00  p.m.

County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey Announces Scholarship Recipients

MORRIS COUNTY — The County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey (CPANJ) presented scholarship awards to four recipients of the Oscar W. Rittenhouse, Andrew K. Ruotolo, Jr., Harris Y. Cotton and John H. Stamler Memorial Scholarships.

The CPANJ, a nonprofit corporation, annually awards scholarships to law students, college and graduate students. Each scholarship is a one-year grant in the amount of up to $3,500.00 paid directly to the recipient.

Scholarship recipients from previous years are ineligible. The awards were presented at the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office in Trenton, New Jersey by CPANJ President Fredric M. Knapp and Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez. The presentation ceremony was attended by New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal, and all New Jersey County Prosecutors. To be eligible for the Oscar W. Rittenhouse Memorial scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident accepted for admission into a law school. The application must have an interest in pursuing a career as a prosecutor.

The applicant must also demonstrate financial need. The recipient of the 2018 Oscar W. Rittenhouse Memorial scholarship is Eric Patrick Vivino. To be eligible for the Andrew K. Ruotolo, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident accepted for admission to a law school or a graduate school. The applicant must exhibit an interest in, and commitment to, enhancing the rights and well-being of children through child advocacy programs. The applicant must also demonstrate financial need.

The recipient of the 2018 Andrew K. Ruotolo Jr. Memorial Scholarship is Amanda Kate Cipriano. To be eligible for the Harris Y. Cotton Memorial scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident accepted for admission to a law school. The applicant must have an interest in pursuing a career as a prosecutor with an emphasis in Domestic Violence or Hate Crime prosecutions. The applicant must also demonstrate financial need. The recipient of the 2018 Harris Y. Cotton Memorial Scholarship is Cindy Vanessa Guoman.

To be eligible for the John H. Stamler Memorial scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident and sworn law enforcement officer seeking educational advancement on a college or graduate level to improve his or her effectiveness as a law enforcement officer. The applicant must also demonstrate financial need.

The recipient of the 2018 John H. Stamler Memorial scholarship is Wayne O. Jackson, Jr. CPANJ President Fredric M. Knapp stated, “On behalf of the County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey, I would like to congratulate the four scholarship recipients. Their hard work and commitment to their respective career paths is admirable”.

Halloween Costume Swap at the Library

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library is accepting children costumes. Do you have children’s costumes you no longer need? Are you looking for a costume for your child? Participate in the Libraries Costume Swap.

If you have costumes for children that are in good condition, drop them off at the Parsippany Public Library Children’s Department during regular library hours. Costumes my be brought in until Monday, October 15.

If you need a costume for children, register to pick them up on Wednesday, October 17 from 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. or from 7:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The library cannot guarantee specific sizes or styles will be available. Each family may register for one session to select costumes. There is no free for this program. Please note that if there are not enough costumes collected, sessions may be canceled.

The Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library is located at 449 Halsey Road. For more information call (973) 887-5150, ext. 233.

CCM Seventh Annual Photo Contest for NJ High School Students

RANDOLPH — New Jersey high school students who enjoy the creative practice of photography have until April 13, 2019 to enter the County College of Morris (CCM) Seventh Annual Photo Contest for the chance to win prizes and be recognized at a CCM art exhibition. Millburn Camera ASAP in Millburn – one of the largest photo stores in the state – is serving as sponsor for this year’s contest by providing gift certificates for the First, Second and Third place winners.

The theme for this year’s contest is “Roots.” Redefining the meaning of cultural identification has become a global process as society continually grows, and people can no longer be labeled as only one thing or another. High-school-aged photographers are invited to submit photos that visually explore their cultural roots and shows the beauty and complexity of their cultural identity.

Winning photographs, honorable mentions and finalists will be featured in an exhibition, along with work from CCM photography students, next May in CCM’s Art and Design Gallery located in the Sherman H. Masten Learning Resource Center. Winners are required to submit high-resolution files for the exhibition and may need to show proof of ID and authorship.

To stay informed, contestants can join the “CCM Photo Club Competition” Facebook page by clicking here for news and announcements, and to vote for the photo that will receive the Popularity Award. Voting for the Popularity Award begins at midnight on April 20, 2019, and all winners will be announced at the opening of the exhibition.

Photos can be submitted now through midnight April 13, 2019 either online or through the mail. To enter online click here.  To enter by mail, send prints or digital files to County College of Morris, Photography department, EH 110, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph NJ 07869-2086. Be sure to include your contact information. There is no limit to the number of entries, and finalists for First, Second and Third place will be notified on April 20, 2018.

For additional information, email ngruneiro@ccm.edu or hslovenc@ccm.edu.

Second place: Morgan L. Eng
Third Place: Connie Huang

Sam is the cutest 10-month-old Shih Tzu/Min Pin mix

PARSIPPANY — Meet Sam! He is the cutest 10-month-old Shih Tzu/Min Pin mix with a heart of gold!

He is extremely loving and sweet. One of his favorite hobbies includes snuggling next to you in bed.

Sam may be shy at first when meeting new people, but quickly warms up and will become your new best friend! Overall, he is a moderate energy type of dog–he loves to play but also calms down nicely by laying on his favorite dog bed.

He enjoys playing chase and wrestling with his doggy foster siblings! Sam is working on his potty training.

Sam does great with dogs of all sizes. He has not met a cat yet and would do best in a home with older children as he likes to play rough.

If you’re looking for a puppy who is full of fun, apply on our website to adopt Sam!

If you are interested in adopting Sam, please fill out an application by clicking here.

Follow Wise Animal Rescue on Instagram by clicking here.
Like Wise Animal Rescue on Facebook by clicking here.

Council approves 1515 Route 10 for Mixed-Use Development

PARSIPPANY — At the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council meeting held on Tuesday, September 25, a resolution was passed amending the redevelopment plan for property located at 1515 Route 10. The original redevelopment plan was passed by the Township Council on August 22, 2017.

Council voted 4-1 in support of the resolution, with Council Vice President Janice McCarthy voting against the project.

The previous redevelopment plan adopted on August 22, 2017 passed 5-0 with former Council President Louis Valori, Council Vice President Robert Peluso, Councilman Michael dePierro, Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., and Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani all voting for the redevelopment plan. That redevelopment plan was adopted and still is in effect.

The original plan announced by Stanbery Development was to build a 50-room hotel, 90,700 square feet of retail space, 45,000 square feet of restaurant space, 61,500 square feet of office space and 180 one-bedroom units and 62 two-bedroom units. Part of the property is in Hanover Township. It is anticipated that a redevelopment plan will ultimately be prepared for the balance of the Redevelopment Area, which is identified in Hanover Township as Block 303, Lots 13 and 14.

The revised redevelopment plan approved on September 25 is for construction of 100,000 square feet of retail space and 441 residential units. “What we have here is an opportunity to transform a 1980s vacant office building into a really vibrant, extraordinary mixed-use project, which we called The District at 1515,” said Mark Pottschmidt, a co-founder of Stanbery Development. Stanbery Development also is the owner of The Shoppes At Union Hill, on Route 10, Denville.

Proposed development at 1515 Route 10

According to Brandon Nutting, a representative of Stanbery Development, the property will be developed in two phases. Phase I would consist of 64,000 square feet of retail space and 273 residential units. Phase II would add 36,000 square feet of retail and an additional 168 residential units, for a total of 100,000 square feet of retail space and 441 residential units.

“We are actually working on the unit mix now but generally the market rate units will be in the neighborhood of 60% one-bedroom and 40% two-bedrooms.  The Affordable unit mix will be driven by COAH and will include some three-bedrooms,” stated Mark Pottschmidt.

Under Council on Affordable Housing (COAH)  regulations, developers must agree to build a fixed percentage of affordable units—usually 15 (for rental units) to 20 percent (for units for sale)—of the total constructed on the site, to market to low and moderate income households and to maintain affordability for 30 years. The complex will be required to build 68 COAH units.  Stanbery plans to build 34 units, and will pay Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Affordable Housing Trust for the other 34 units. It is estimated they will pay $2,550,000 to the Affordable Housing Trust.

Stanbery Development, LLC., paid $14.1 million for property in March 2015.

Proposed development at 1515 Route 10

Council members questioned township Financial Analyst Mike Hanley about the complex financing involved with the project, which includes a PILOT program that offers “Payments in Lieu of Taxes” by the developers.

“My concerns were related to the financing needed to move the project forward and how the financing is structured with the PILOT and the redevelopment bond.  I would have preferred a more substantive presentation on COAH including the “set aside” per unit fee and a more comprehensive explanation on how the Affordable Trust funds would be used. Also, I would have liked to have seen a year to date accounting of the existing Trust Fund and how funds were used to create affordable housing units,” said Council Vice President Janice McCarthy.

In an email request to former Council President Louis Valori requesting comment on the recent approval his response was “Frank Cahill do not email me again. I already warned you. Your behavior is sickening.”

Resident Bob Venezia said “I can see where this project helps the developer makes money. I can see where it helps Millennials, some housing, but I don’t see anything that Parsippany as a town gets.  According to a newspaper article, it says this, this project will be the densest housing development ever in Parsippany. It sets a precedent for other developments. Congested traffic, overcrowded schools.”

Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., stated “The location of the project and the Road improvements that will be made to Dryden way will keep traffic off Route 202 which is  very congested. Most of the traffic going to and leaving this area will go directly on and off Route 10 close to Route 287. Although this project has 441 units in total between both phases the majority of those units will be studio or one bedroom geared towards millennials. This intern means that it will not add a lot of school aged children burdening our school systems.; The money that the  township will be receiving to go into our Affordable Housing Trust Fund can be utilized to subsidize apartments for affordable housing that already exist in town. Therefore cutting down on additional development that may be needed to meet whatever Parsippany’s COAH obligation is. (We are still waiting for our number of affordable housing units that the town must plan for.)”

“In addition by approving this plan the Township will get up to three credits for every unit we subsidize for affordable housing. Plain and simple the way the current plan would go we would be able to use this trust fund money to subsidize 34 units and could receive up to approximately 100 credits (units) of affordable housing;  The developer has agreed to maintain all streets in the development including snow plowing as well as maintenance and garbage pick up. Therefore saving the township money and time versus other possible developments that could eventually go there; This development will have some very nice retail and restaurant services for our residents. The Township will also be able to use the courtyard area for such things as farmers markets as well as other events,” said Carifi.

Stanbery Development must submit site plans to The Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board to receive approvals.

The building at 1515 Route 10, formerly occupied by Intel. This building contains 213,742 square feet.

Currently in the main building on the property, it has three stories plus a lower level. The gross floor area is 237,300 square feet. It was built in 1984. Almost the entirety of the building is unoccupied.

The second building, to the south of the main building and connected by a second story walkway, is three stories and has a gross floor area of 71,231 square feet. It was built in 1999. There are 1,091 parking spaces on site around the perimeter of the buildings, more than 700 parking spaces located on Lot 1.02. The remaining 320 parking spaces are located on Lots 13 and 14 of Block 303 in Hanover Township.

“The Promise is Hope” in concert at The Smith Road Coffee House

PARSIPPANY — The Smith Road Coffee House at St. Ann Church proudly presents “The Promise is Hope” in concert on Saturday, October 20. Doors open at 7:30 p.m.

Music starts at 8:00 p.m. Admission $15.00; cash or check only.

Ashley and Eric L’Esperance (The Promise is Hope) first felt their musical and personal chemistry at a song swap in 2013. In 2014, they got married, released their debut album and began establishing themselves as one of New England’s finest emerging acts.

Drawing from the well of life experience expressed through intimate songwriting, they present a beautifully moving, inspired and connected live performance. They were nominated 2018 ‘Roots Act of the Year’ (New England Music Awards) after the debut of their sophomore album, Every Seed Must Die, a “soul-cleansing songs simmered in collective courage…The songwriting on this album is exceptional (No Depression).

For more information on “The Promise is Hope” click here.

The Smith Road Coffee House is located at St. Ann Church, 781 Smith Road. For more information call (973) 884-1986 or email frdavid@saint-ann.net.

Annual Rabies Immunization Clinic for Dogs and Cats

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Annual Rabies Immunization Clinic for Dogs and Cats will be Saturday, November 3, at the OEM Building, 1 Pumphouse Road. (Recycling Center) No charge for dogs or cats.

Dog Schedule – 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Dogs must be on a leash and accompanied by an adult

Cat Schedule – 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Cats must be in carrier or similar carrying devices

For more information contact the Health Department at (973) 263-7160.